Colour changing threads.

[Earl Smith]

I have just spoken with my machine supplier about a photo he up loaded onto Instagram. Barudan.
There is a new system coming out where you buy only white thread and somehow a machine will dye the thread to whatever colour you want while it is on its way into the embroidery machine . Im very sceptical about its washability but it looks like an interesting step forwards.
Ive tried to upload an image but cant get it to work.

[pw66]

That has been featured in both Pand P and Images mags over the last few months. Based on how long it took to get DTG to be usable I think you could be right to be sceptical. Probably be something to keep your eye on for the future.

[Earl Smith]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WslA_- ... 5ShJuDgv9Q

Found this short link showing it working. Also found some prices which will make your eyes water. For a single head; 20,000€ and a 6 head 100,000€. I asked how could this be payable or worth buying. It seems that in areas where there is low unemployment they cannot get the workers who will just work feeding a machine with threads all day long. Every time there is a new design, new colours and threading the threads through all 6 heads means a down time of 2 hours in a 12 hour working day. With this device this worker is not needed and the machine is almost constantly running. Plus the saving of having all the thread colours in stock. The 100,000€ device is paid for in about 3 years.

[Quinsfan]

I am sure at P & P the thread was able to produce blended colours as well. Not being into embroidery I didn't really have a good look but seemed to be producing gradient coloured logos.

[Earl Smith]

Apparently that is what it also does, gradient fills , which is possible with coloured threads but not easy to do unless you have the right program.

My thought on the system , besides being damn expensive , is how good is the washability? Most of my work is for work clothing and they are often washed at 60c.

[logobear]

this is a very smart tech, - and in 20 years, all embroidery will be done that way.
there is about 1.5m between the dye sublimation and the needle.
I have full confidence in washability, but the issue is if/when you have a thread break.... the thread needs re-dying ....
obviously, the digitizing process will be very different too, but it paves the way for automated robot embroidery!